Sierra Blogging Post Archives

This is an intense video of a skier who was caught and buried in an avalanche and rescued after 4 and a half minutes beneath the snow. His helmet cam caught the whole thing on tape.

According to the article on Vimeo, this guy had lots of experience skiing the backcountry and was even wearing a Black Diamond Avalung backpack, designed to provide air in case of an avalanche burial. The problem was that he didn't have the tube in his mouth when he dropped in and by the time the avalanche started to suck him under, it was too late.

The video was shot in Haines, Alaska and is about 8 minutes long. After we see the avalanche take him down, there's four and a half minutes of nothing but him trying to breathe. Then at about 6 minutes, the rescue begins. It will send chills up your spine.

Avalanche Skier POV Helmet Cam Burial & Rescue in Haines, Alaska from Chappy on Vimeo.

This video is another reminder of the importance of avalanche safety and awareness any time you're skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling or snowshoeing in the backcountry. Snow's a lot of fun but can also be dangerous. Be prepared with an avalanche beacon, transmitter and shovel.